Bethel Glory Cloud

You may have been aware that towards the end of last year a 'glory cloud' appeared on a number of occasions in The Sanctuary at Bethel Church, Redding California whilst Sunday services were taking place. I have noted that such an occurrence draws out many different responses. Some respond with total belief that it's from God and a sign pointing to someone greater. Others respond with total unbelief and hostility. And then there are others who just have lots of questions!

I heard about the 'glory cloud' shortly after it happened and managed to see some brief grainy footage that had been uploaded to Youtube. It was our long-term friend who is doing the 2nd year of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry (BSSM) that contacted us to let us know about it first. Subsequently I have heard accounts from a GP, who doubles up as a church leader, a self-confessed cynical retired Head Teacher and a friend who was visiting Bethel Church. Each of these experienced the 'glory cloud' from various positions including watching it from the other side of the room right up to actually entering it. I think all of them were asking the question 'why?', but none of them doubted their experience, what the felt or what they witnessed, which included a number of healings.

Our friend who is a BSSM student described feeling awe and wonder at what he was seeing and a part of. All expressed their experiences from a place of being a part of something and not just being a spactator at an event.

The GP observed how he had always expected a 'glory cloud' to be wet and misty looking, but after seeing a cloud of dry gold dust realised he had made wrong assupmtions. The cloud was also described as 'moving' and 'dancing' around the room.

The Head Teacher described himself as having gone to Bethel Chruch as a cynical believer, but exeperienced sitting in the middle of a 'glory cloud' and being cynical no more!

I have watched the video footage numerous times and am still in awe of what God did and is doing. I had nearly been out at Bethel Church myself when it occurred and have wondered how I would have responded. I have also thought to myself am I going to be a doubting Thomas and say 'I'll only believe when I see it myself first-hand. I know various people who were first-hand witnesses to the 'glory cloud' and trust them and know them as people of integrity, so I have no reason to doubt. I also believe Bill Johnson (Senior Pastor of Bethel Church) to be a Godly man full of integrity. He has always said any sign always points to something greater than itself and is not the destination or object to be worshipped. He has also given some good response as to what he believes the 'glory cloud' is about and it has happened.  

This is not about us all seeking and asking for a 'glory cloud' to appear in our services, but about us being in awe of what God chooses to do wherever He chooses to do it, not doubting God's ability in the supernatural signs & wonders realm, and responding 'Jesus I want more of you.'